Snippet #1138159

Mason nodded at Alleysea’s words. He wasn’t sure if they were directed to him or to the Gatekeeper, but either way, they were true. He kicked his horse forward, passing the guard in front and taking the lead. He trusted Alleysea’s ability to defend herself if necessary, but she was very important to her kingdom, and he didn’t want anything to happen to her.

At the same time, he felt the icy chill of sadness sink into his heart as he contemplated what exactly he was doing in this task. He was to deliver the princess of his kingdom into the hands of a powerful enemy, all on a mere hope that the gesture of submission would convince the more powerful kingdom to leave them alone.

It’s not even a guaranteed deal, he scoffed, knowing that it was a long shot even to do this. He could deliver the princess, wedding her to the enemy, and the Emperor could still decide to destroy his home. It was a distinct possibility, and he needed to watch out for what to do if that was his decision.

All these thoughts passed through the warrior’s head as he rode forward over the still-paved road, which was surrounded by blinding simple beauty in this midday hour. Fields of corn and wheat glowed a brilliant gold and green, reflecting multitudes of sunlight on the simple canvas of the wagon’s tarp.

He glanced back and caught the eye of the guard who was guiding the coach horses forward. He was met with the unfriendly gaze of a malicious man, along with the gentle profiles of the two maidens within.

He immediately pitied the girls, as their fate was assured; if something went wrong with the plan and he had to save Alleysea from the enemy, they were not important enough to risk his own safety, because he would then be responsible for returning the princess to Edetser. Two maidens, as sad as their situation would be, could not stop him from completing that other task.